School hit by flu outbreak
Posted
A primary school near Hobart is dealing with a major influenza epidemic.
The virus hit Lauderdale Primary School last week and yesterday 250 students and 10 teachers were absent.
The school's principal, Mike Woods, says it is the most serious incidence of illness he has seen in 30 years of teaching.
He says one teacher and several students have been admitted to hospital.
"I believe after talking with Dr Avner Misrachi from the Public Health Service the symptoms are very similar to Influenza A and the people who have been hospitalised are being tested for that at the moment," Mr Woods said.
Health authorities have decided against closing the school unless the situation deteriorates.
However, parents are being asked to keep students with any sign of illness at home.
